HPSP Waiver

[cognosco]

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Quick question about the HPSP application process. A student in my cohort was asking me questions about the program, and I didn't have all the answers.

I have searched the forums and have not seen this information anywhere else.
Is there any reason NOT to apply to more than one service? If a person is not accepted at one, perhaps he or she will be accepted at another, no?

Second, is it difficult to get accepted into the program if an applicant has a prior DUI conviction?

Thanks for your help!

 

[erg923]

Quick question about the HPSP application process. A student in my cohort was asking me questions about the program, and I didn't have all the answers.

I have searched the forums and have not seen this information anywhere else.
Is there any reason NOT to apply to more than one service? If a person is not accepted at one, perhaps he or she will be accepted at another, no?

Second, is it difficult to get accepted into the program if an applicant has a prior DUI conviction?

Yes, one can be accepted by one and not the other. However, I can tell you that a DUI requires a waiver by top brass. From what I hear, you are likely to get the waiver (as long as it didn't occur just last month or something) HOWEVER, it will really hinder/taint your image for them. Personally, I had a "etoh possession by a minor" like 10 years ago and even THAT was an issue for them. At that level (officers), the military is really trying to bring in people who are "all american" and can serve as a role model. Any hint of substance abuse (even in your past) is kind of a liability for them.

 

[cognosco]

Thanks for the feedback? Can anyone else in the program comment on this issue?

 

[voyeurofthemind]

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[PsychStudent101]

While I can't comment directly on your situation, I recently completed my physical for the Navy HPSP and I got the feeling that they have no problem DQing you. Some people were DQ'd for unreported injuries while I was there. I honestly cannot imagine how someone with a DUI conviction would be accepted for a HPSP scholarship-- regardless of branch.

I am not at all surprised by the above poster's story. Throughout my application process so far, it has been stressed to me to be honest about my past (which I have). Though at the same time, I have experienced hesitancy on the part of the recruiters for even mentioning marijuana use from college. I too only want to be honest, but got the feeling they wanted me to lie about it because it could jeopardize my application.

 

[erg923]

Keep in mind that a DUI itself is not going to DQ you on the physical exam. However, I think the concensus is that even if you get the techincal waiver that's required from the higher ups, your app is still tainted. A HPSP Army recruiter posted here a while back advertising for the Army's HPSP and said flat out if you have anything more than traffic offenses, not to even bother applying.

You can't really blame them if you think about it. Substance abuse has historically been a huge issue in the armed services. Its a huge liability for them to possibly take on someone who is prone to that sort of behavior problem. They (the armed services) are also tying to get rid of that image. One way the are doing that is by stacking the officer postions with squeeky clean individuals who can serve as role models. I think that they think its especially important that their psychologists (and other mental health professionals) meet this image.

Obviously, lying should not be an option here. Especially for things that are so easily discoverable such as a DUI or extensive medical treatment (eg., etoh rehab). You would be fined, possibly sent to prison, and have your record runied (ie., dishonorable discharge) for most of the rest of your life.